O17.2 Exploring Freddie: Lessons from a Novel Virtual HIV PrEP Care Model in Canada

Abstract

Background/PurposeTo combat the HIV Epidemic, the concept of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has gained considerable traction since demonstrating efficacy in 2012 and approval in Canada in 2016. Unfortunately, this HIV prevention method has not been ubiquitously taken up by those most at risk for many reasons, including difficulty in accessing care. Innovation, and necessity during the COVID pandemic, has increased the use of technology with new care models providing 100% of PrEP care virtually.ApproachThis presentation will focus on the impacts and early findings of Freddie, a novel and entirely virtual PrEP care model in Canada focused on gender and sexual minority communities. This online health program connects those most at risk of HIV transmission with affirming prescribers across multiple provinces to break down physical and social barriers to PrEP initiation and ongoing use.Outcomes/ImpactFreddie has reached the benchmark of 1,000 patients in Canada, the majority of which have never been on PrEP before, representing a quick uptake in virtual PrEP services in Canada. The observations made thus far affirm theories that inclusive virtual care models can lead to increased access to STBBI prevention methods.Innovation and SignificancePresenters will discuss the innovative components of Freddie’s virtual care model, explore findings as they relate to PrEP uptake and initiation by speaking to its initial successes and challenges, as well as how it addresses PrEP access barriers in Canada. This includes Freddie’s focus on LGBTQ2S+ Canadians who are known to be at higher risk of HIV and historically have faced extraordinary barriers accessing sexual health care in inclusive settings. The intervention explored in this presentation continues to address such barriers through an innovative and accessible care model.